Portland food news and views
A liquor license application for something called Tonga Room appeared online in early May, and with a name like that I could not resist looking into it. I’ve reached out to Mike Collman, the person behind Tonga Room, but am still waiting to hear back. But there is a lot going on as far as “the rest of the story” and background that’s worth writing about. Think of this as Part 1 of the story.
Continue reading “Tonga Room and The Heights in Portland: Some Background”
Strawberry Shortcake Week 2026—coming soon! It’s a little bit earlier this year, but that just means the strawberries will be on your plate before you know it. Here are all the details about the week, which is one of my top three favorite food weeks in Portland (Dumpling Week and Salad Week being the others).
Continue reading “Strawberry Shortcake Week 2026 Is Almost Here in Portland”
Over the years, I’ve been really impressed by the various Veganizer events produced by Waz Wu and her team here in Portland. Whether it’s Circle V, World Vegan Month, or one of their dinners, you can be sure it will be a solid and enjoyable event. So I am happy to tell you about the Second Annual Veganizer Asian Market, happening Sunday, June 7 at the Redd on Salmon. It looks like a fantastic occasion filled with delicious plant-based food and drink (and you can go straight to the ticketing info, here, if you like).
Continue reading “Second Annual Veganizer Asian Market Returns This Year in Portland”
Have you been to El Pollo Chano? I saw some enthusiastic comments online about this place, a food truck with a dedicated smoker there on-site in the parking lot by the Chill Zone smoke shop on NE Sandy and 111th. I have passed this place driving east on Sandy Blvd many times, and my interest is majorly piqued.
Continue reading “Small Bites: El Pollo Chano, Pickles, Salami Mammi, and More”
In downtown Portland, not far from Pioneer Courthouse Square, is the home of the very first Lavoratti 1938 chocolate shop in the United States. They chose Portland over places like New York City and San Francisco, which I think is a big deal. I stopped by the other day to see the shop, try some chocolate samples, and learn more about this cherished Italian chocolate company.
Continue reading “Lavoratti 1938 Opens Their First US Chocolate Shop in Portland”